Which medication is known to have the longest half-life?

Fluoxetine is known to have the longest half-life among the medications listed. Its half-life ranges from 4 to 6 days, and its active metabolite, norfluoxetine, has an even longer half-life of up to 16 days. This extended half-life allows for a more stable plasma concentration, which can contribute to a lower risk of withdrawal symptoms and a prolonged therapeutic effect.

This characteristic is particularly significant in clinical practice because it informs how frequently the medication can be dosed and how manageable the treatment protocol can be. Understanding the pharmacokinetics of fluoxetine, including its half-life, is crucial for appropriate patient management, especially in the context of antidepressant therapy where adherence to the regimen is essential for efficacy.

In contrast, sertraline, citalopram, and escitalopram have shorter half-lives, which can necessitate more frequent dosing and may lead to a higher potential for withdrawal effects upon discontinuation.